Consultant Profile: Robyn Marren

Area Center: Columbia Title: Business Consultant Start Date: January 2, 2024

QUESTION: What was your career track prior to joining the SC SBDC?ANSWER: I came from the USC School of Law, where I was Director of Finance. Prior to that, I was Director of Business Operations at University of California at Berkeley. But my longest position was serving as Chief Operations Director for Lenoir-Rhyne University on their Columbia campus.

QUESTION: What motivated you to become an SC SBDC consultant?ANSWER:  I wanted to make a career change where I could make a difference in the lives of others. I was ready to move away from finance (crunching numbers all day). The Mission/Vision of SC SBDC was very appealing to me! Then I met Michele Abraham and the rest of the team and felt immediately at home with the SC SBDC. 

QUESTION: What is the best piece of advice you would offer an aspiring business owner? ANSWER: There is a lot of support, given by knowledgeable staff members, so don’t wait to ask for help.

QUESTION: What area of interest/expertise do you offer your clients? ANSWER: I have a degree in accounting and worked in corporate accounting for many years. Then I attained an MBA later in life to refresh my skills. My sweet spot and passion is the area of operations: how to help companies run efficiently. 

QUESTION: Since becoming an SC SBDC consultant, what is your greatest accomplishment? ANSWER: I attended an event at the Lexington, SC Chamber of Commerce today, and signed up my first client. A woman owned small business who is just getting started and didn’t know we existed, so she is excited to get help building her business.

QUESTION: Why is the SC SBDC an important resource for business owners in South Carolina? ANSWER: Most people who start a business are good in one or two areas, but neglect the other important aspects of their business. We can help them complete the full range of duties to start and maintain their small business.

QUESTION: What is your favorite part about working for the SC SBDC? ANSWER: My coworkers: the people I have met who work for SC SBDC are all wonderful and talented in differing ways. I look forward to learning from each one and growing my skills in this new role.

QUESTION: What quote/saying/maxim expresses your philosophy toward work and/or life? ANSWER: “The secret of happiness if not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.” ~Socrates 

QUESTION: Describe your approach to counseling. ANSWER: Listen, listen, listen!

QUESTION: What keeps you busy when you're not at work? What is your hobby and/or passion? ANSWER: I’m an exercise fanatic and workout 5 times a week including weekly yoga. I love to sew and make not only clothes, but also household accessories. I also love to fish and recently caught a 10-pound catfish!